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Crape MyrtleThese choices for patio trees are some of the most widely available. They are also either broad leaf or flowering, the two best types for patio trees. The Japanese Maple, The Trident Maple, Paperbark Maple, Eastern Redbud, Raywood Ash, Pagoda Tree, Crape Myrtle, Amur Maple and Magnolia. -
Japanese Pagoda TreeSome of these patio trees are hardy as far north as zone 3 and they are all hardy as far south as zone 8. The zones warmer than this are for palm trees. If you live in the northern part of the hardiness zone, you should consider trees that are hardy in the zone below yours. Those is the southern part of the zone can consider trees that are only hardy in the zone higher than theirs, but in both cases, you will need to take extra care of it. If a tree is available at your local nursery, you know it is safe to plant in your area. - Look for trees that have wide leaves in order to get the most shade. Check the span of the branches as well as the height. What you choose depends on the size of your patio. Decide first how much you want the tree to cover and And look at the specific features of each one. For instance, the Japanese Maple has dramatic red leaves while the Trident Maple will have bark that changes colors. Crape Myrtle is a flowering tree and comes in a choice of colors such as white, burgundy, oink and lavender. The Pagoda Tree can have a spread of as much as 60 feet.
- Buy a tree that is a few years old and large enough to walk under. Fruit trees are an option, but you have to consider the fact that the fruit will fall on the patio floor and not only is it a mess to clean up, but the floor will end up stained as well. And having it fall on you or your guests is not something you want to happen.
- Trees with root that stay on the surface can get under the structure and lift it up. Make sure the type of tree you choose has roots that go deep. Pick a tree that is native to your area. They are used to the growing conditions and less likely to develop diseases. Also buy from a local nursery to eliminate the problem of insects from another area being transported to yours. Insects that are not indigenous to the area can cause problems with the ecology.
